1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 530 kg more than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 (359 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton. (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 | 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 450 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4519 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 2160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
